Abstract

APPRAISAL OF KNOWLEDGE, ATTITUDE, PRACTICE AND MEDICATION ADHERENCE TOWARDS ANTIDIABETIC DRUGS AMONG DIABETIC PATIENTS IN TERTIARY CARE TEACHING HOSPITAL, DAVANGERE

Dr. Santosh Uttangi, Prof. J. S. Venkatesh, Aleena R. Reji, Aneeta G. Jacob, Bhoomika K. S. and Dona Aju*

.

Abstract

Diabetes mellitus is a chronic condition that requires effective management through medication adherence to prevent complications and maintain optimal health. Understanding patient‟s knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) regarding their medication is crucial for developing strategies to improve adherence. This study aims to assess the knowledge, attitude, and practices (KAP) of diabetic patients regarding antidiabetic medications and their adherence to prescribed treatment regimen. A questionnaire-based, cross-sectional study was conducted among diabetic patients admitted to a tertiary care teaching hospital for a period of 6 months using a structured questionnaire. Out of 220 patients, Metformin (Biguanides) being the most commonly used medication (183 patients). Results showed that the majority of patients had medium levels of knowledge (54.1%), attitude (52.7%), and practice (57.3%) regarding diabetes management. Knowledge was higher among males, those with higher education, longer diabetes duration, and a positive family history. However, there was no significant correlation between these factors and attitude. Good practice was notably higher in patients with higher education, a longer duration of diabetes, and a positive family history. Only 10.5% of participants were highly adherent to their medications, with 50% categorized as low adherents. The reasons behind non-adherence varied and ranged from forgetfulness (41.8%), feeling better or worse when taken (20.4%), low literacy level (12.3%), cost of medication (6.8%), etc. Higher education, good glycemic control, and employment were associated with better adherence. The findings highlight the need for enhanced patient education, support, and clinical pharmacist involvement to improve KAP and medication adherence in diabetes management.

Keywords: Diabetes, Knowledge, Attitude, Practice, Medication Adherence, Antidiabetic Drugs.